KR102215770B1 - Flat-knit support garment for upper torso - Google Patents

Abstract

An aspect of a flat-knit support garment for the upper body is provided. The flat-knit support garment comprises a flat-knit bra material comprising a cup section (22, 30), body section (12), wing section, strap section (14, 18, 19, 32) and chest band section (24) It may include a bra structure 10 having. In some examples, the periphery of the flat-knit comprising the neck opening and the periphery opening includes a finishing edge treatment corresponding to the covered yarn of high elastic modulus. Such finished edges are created in a seamless configuration with an integral flat-knit structure of the flat-knit support garment for the upper body. The flat-knit properties of the upper body support garment may correspond to one or more of a flat-knit stitch sequence, yarn type and/or finish.

Description

Flat-knit support garment for upper body {FLAT-KNIT SUPPORT GARMENT FOR UPPER TORSO}

The present invention relates to a flat-knit support garment for the upper body.

This summary introduces a selection of concepts that are further described in the detailed description below. It is not intended to be used as a tool to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter or to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The invention is defined by the claims.

At a high level, aspects herein relate to a flat-knit garment for the wearer's upper body, such as a flat-knit support garment having one or more flat-knit support zones. In some embodiments, the flat-knit support garment for the upper body of the wearer comprises a flat-knit bra, wherein the integral bra structure comprises zone support, shaping, modest, and air permeability. It includes an integrated flat-knit feature for the bra, and there is no surrounding texture at the flat-knit edge of the bra. Exemplary flat-knit bras are waste of material in the construction of an integral bra, because by the seamless flat-knitting process, a finished knit structure is created that is not surrounded by the fabric structure from which the bra is to be removed. May be particularly suitable to minimize In addition, a finished flat-knit garment with a finished flat-knit edge can be assembled with minimal seaming and/or optimized integration of at least one closure mechanism during the closure of the flat-knit garment. have.

In some embodiments, the flat-knit bra material provides one or more zonal sequences of knitting throughout the flat knitting process with specific yarns isolated within specific areas that change both the support properties and appearance of the multiple parts. Can include. In another aspect, incorporating a flat-knit support structure, such as inlaid yarn of varying strength, and varying the stitch sequence and/or yarn type between adjacent flat-knit zones is a flat -Additional customization of knitted support garments can be provided.

The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
1 is a plan view of a flat-knit bra according to various aspects,
2 shows a front perspective view of a flat-knit bra knitted across a garment width, according to various aspects,
3 shows a front perspective view of a flat-knit bra knitted across garment height, according to various aspects,
4 shows a top view of a flat-knit bra with a regional flat-knit feature, a closed flat-knit edge and a neck opening (single opening), according to various aspects,
5 shows a plan view of a front portion and a corresponding rear portion of a flat-knit bra according to various aspects,
6 shows an enlarged view of a portion of a flat-knit bra with integrated flat-knit features in various support regions of the bra, according to various aspects,
7 shows an enlarged perspective view of a flat-knit bra with integrated flat-knit features providing shaping according to various aspects,
8 shows a front perspective view of a flat-knit bra with an integrated support structure, according to various aspects,
9 shows a front perspective view of an isolated support zone in a flat-knit bra based at least in part on a varying yarn, according to various aspects,
10 shows a front view of a flat-knit bra having an integral knit structure comprising an integral flat-knit strap, according to various aspects,
11 shows a front perspective view of an assembled flat-knit bra according to various aspects,
12 shows a plan view of a flat-knit bra in an unassembled form, according to various aspects,
13 shows a plan view of a flat-knit bra in an unassembled form, according to various aspects,
14 shows a plan view of a flat-knit bra having a stretch edge along at least a portion of the perimeter of the flat-knit bra, in an unassembled form, according to various aspects,
FIG. 15 shows a top view of the flat-knit bra of FIG. 14 with integral patterning features cut from a portion of the bra, in accordance with various aspects;
FIG. 16 shows a top view of the flat-knit bra of FIG. 14 with a plurality of inlay features, in accordance with various aspects,
17 shows a front view of an assembled flat-knit bra showing flat-knit shaping prior to molding, according to various aspects,
18 is a rear view of the assembled flat-knit bra of FIG. 17, according to various aspects,
19 is a front perspective view of an assembled and cup-shaped flat-knit bra, according to various aspects,
Figure 20 is a rear perspective view of the flat-knit bra of Figure 19, according to various aspects,
21 is a front perspective view of an assembled flat-knit bra, according to various aspects,
22 is a plan view of a flat-knit bra having a first flat-knit layer adjacent to a second layer, according to various aspects,
23 is a plan view of a preformed flat-knit bra showing a first amount of flat-knit shaping, according to various aspects,
FIG. 24 is a rear perspective view of the flat-knit bra of FIG. 23 assembled and molded to show a second amount of flat-knit shaping, according to various aspects;
25 is a front perspective view of the flat-knit bra of FIG. 24, according to various aspects,
26 is an exemplary stitch sequence for at least a portion of a flat-knit bra chest band region, according to various aspects,
27 is an exemplary stitch sequence for at least a portion of a flat-knit bra chest band region, according to various aspects,
28 is an exemplary stitch sequence for at least a portion of a flat-knit bra cup region, according to various aspects,
29 is an exemplary stitch sequence for at least a portion of a flat-knit bra main rear region, according to various aspects,
30 is an exemplary stitch sequence for at least a portion of a flat-knit bra edge rear region, according to various aspects,
31 is an exemplary stitch sequence for at least a portion of a flat-knit bra mesh back region, in accordance with various aspects.

The subject matter of the present invention is specifically described to meet legal requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of the aspects described herein. Rather, it is contemplated that the claimed subject matter may also be embodied in other ways to include different steps or combinations of steps similar to those described herein in connection with other present or future technologies. Also, although the terms "step" and/or "block" may be used herein to encompass different elements of the method used, the term is specified unless the order of the individual steps is explicitly stated. Unless otherwise stated, it should not be construed as implying any particular order between the various steps disclosed herein.

Various aspects are described with reference to a support garment for the upper body. Some examples are described in the context of a “bra”, which may refer to any garment configured to provide support for a wearer's torso, particularly for at least a portion of a wearer's breast. That is, a flat-knit bra may refer to a torso support garment having a specific support area flat-knitted into the garment, and in some cases, a support garment (eg, in the form of a “cut and sewn” bra) that is It can perform functions similar to functions. For example, one aspect of a flat-knit bra may include a camisole garment with integrated flat-knit features to support the wearer's breast. Similarly, a base layer shirt or other torso garment with flat-knit support features, such as a pair of zoned flat-knit bra cups described herein, may include a seamless flat-knit aspect.

One or more integrated features of the flat-knit torso support garment provide a support aspect of the bra in a seamless flat-knit material. In some aspects, an integral feature may refer to a particular yarn type or a particular stitch type knitted in a continuous bra body, ie “integrated” with a peripheral flat-knit stitch. For example, the integral feature is an integral yarn knitted together with the peripheral flat-knit structure of the bra in a seamless configuration with one or more other integral features of the flat-knit bra material (e.g., a specific yarn material having a specific tensile strength). ) May be referred to.

In another aspect, the integrated support structure is created with flat knitting of one or more yarns to create dimensions in the bra material. Such solids may be referred to as “shaping” and/or displacing a region of a flat-knit bra relative to an adjacent flat-knit region having different integral features. Creating such an integrated support structure within a flat-knit bra can, in some aspects, form a flat knitted material (i.e., a seamless configuration of a flat-knit bra) by knitting in a continuous “integral” manner with the surrounding bra portion. May include. Accordingly, aspects of one or more integrated flat-knit features may be during one or more yarn content changes, one or more stitch structure changes, and one or more configuration changes of the integrated support structure (e.g., flat-knit bra cup). Refers to the seamless construction of the flat-knit bra material, each integrated flat-knit feature having a specific function within the support garment. As such, without changing the knitting machine or inserting separate materials or clothing components, a flat-knit bra is created through flat knitting techniques, including specific integrated features depending on the dimensions and/or proportions of the specific bra. One-piece structures and/or ready-to-wear features may be maintained.

In another example, the integrated support structure may correspond to a variety of different regions within a flat-knit bra. For example, the bra cup region may include an integrated support structure that provides a lift such as an integrated yarn or stitch in a bra hammock. In another example, the bra strap region may include an integrated support structure that adjustable or fixedly provides resistance to elongation, lockout characteristics, and/or other support characteristics that supplement existing stitches in such a specific region. I can. Thus, a flat characterized by one or more integrated features within a flat-knit region, such as a cup region characterized by a specific stitch sequence that creates a shaping and a specific yarn that produces a material with a desired stretch modulus. Aspects for an exemplary flat-knit bra shape with a -knit area are described below. In another aspect, the bra body has a common yarn and/or common stitch sequence throughout the flat-knit bra with additional integrated flat-knit features in specific areas such as the cup area, strap area, body area and chest band area, wing area, etc. It may include. Thus, the integrated flat-knit structure can enhance the properties of other consistent material constructions, imparting increased or reduced stretch properties or structural properties to areas at various locations within the flat-knit bra.

In some aspects, the integrated features of the flat-knit bra can facilitate construction of preformed and pre-shaped bra material for later shaping. For example, a flat-knit bra having a flat-knitted amount of solids within one or more regions of the bra may be treated with a specific shaping technique during the finishing of the flat-knit bra. Because of the stresses and strains on the flat-knit bra material caused by such heat treatment and shaping, aspects of the flat-knit bra facilitate shaping and reduce at least some of the stress on the flat-knit bra material. In some examples of shaping a bra, the cup area can be shaped using a mold structure having a specific depth corresponding to the desired final cup ratio. However, based on pre-shaping a flat-knit bra with various integrated features (i.e., yarn change, stitch change, knitted support structure, short row shaping, etc.), flat-knit bra material Is molded using a shallower mold structure that mates with the pre-shaped flat-knit bra structure, thereby protecting the bra during heat treatment and/or shaping. The resulting finished flat-knit bra is initially formed through pre-shaping flat knitting of the cup area, and also formed during heat forming of the cup area with a mold having a minimum height corresponding to the pre-shaped cup area. It may include a cup area.

In some embodiments, a mold corresponding to a pre-shaped flat-knit bra is a low profile mold that may be less likely to damage (i.e., tear) the material being molded, and particularly material proximate the boundary of the molded feature. profile mold). The deformed mold structure (i.e. the reduction of the required mold size) tears less pre-shaped material compared to molding a flat-knit bra (with or without pre-shaping) on a normal profile mold. , May require less heat applied to create a shaping of the material that has already been pre-shaped, and is less likely to damage the bra material during processing. Further, by maintaining the stability of the flat knitted bra material during shaping, the target application of thermoforming can be applied to the flat knitted and pre-shaped areas in the bra. Additionally, shaping of the pre-shaped and flat knitted cup regions can provide for minimal tearing of the material along the boundary to which the heat treatment is applied, whereby, in some embodiments, one or more pre-shaped and having a seamless configuration Allows zonal application of shallower (i.e. less damage) thermoforming devices to flat knitted areas (e.g. with lower temperatures and/or shorter durations), and post-processing of flat-knit bras Optimize processing.

An additional example of an optimized post-processing treatment for a flat-knit bra is an uncovered spandex that provides a "binding" structure along the armhole and neckline of the bra. (uncovered Spandex) includes knitting integrally. In other words, no additional binding is required along the edge of the finished flat-knit bra, such as a sewn binding or a separate trim piece. Similarly, the flat-knit chest band region may, in some aspects, be knitted integrally with the adjacent flat-knit material, so that no additional sewn elastic trim is required. In some instances, the integral chest band and/or integral elastic edge of the flat-knit bra facilitates optimized assembly time for the flat-knit bra, otherwise the addition of applying edges, trims, bindings, bands, elastics, etc. May need time. For example, by changing the bra body yarn to a high-stretch yarn, the circumference of the bra becomes more resilient, easier to maintain shape, and can be finished without requiring additional processing.

In some aspects, post-processing may also be minimized using partial knitting to create depth within one or more portions of the bra cup area. As such, aspects of a flat-knit bra are partially cut and sewn in different ways to form a material that may include a separate shaped spacer fabric that is sewn within the cup to provide encapsulation and support. Knitting can be used. In another example, partial knitting may be used within an area of a bra, such as a cup area, to create a shaping in the final structure that is used as a pre-shaped guide for later shaping.

In another aspect, the flat-knit edge around the perimeter of the flat-knit support garment is constructed without surrounding fabric structures. Without the surrounding fabric structure, a flat-knit support garment can be created without the need to cut and/or remove excess material. In one aspect, “flat-knit edge” may broadly refer to a binding, cast-off, and/or finished knit edge, such as a flat-knit edge, that retains the structure upon exposure (ie, does not loosen). have. During flat knitting of the outer perimeter and/or edge of the material immediately adjacent to one or more flat-knit zones (having one or more integrated features) within the bra, the flat-knit edge is a continuous with multiple rows knitted along the bra. It can be knitted as a structure. For example, a flat-knit bra includes a continuous structure that maintains the material stability between the rows of the knit, the type of yarn, the change in the zone support area, and the surrounding flat-knit edge. It may include an integral flat-knit configuration, which may refer to having all of the flat knitted contents. At least some of the same set of flat-knit needles can be used to create seamless transitions from yarns of various bra material regions with specific yarn properties to yarns of flat-knit edges with different yarn textures. As such, a flat-knit edge having certain tactile properties different from at least a portion of other flat-knit bra materials may be referred to as a circumferential finish and/or “extensible edge” of a flat-knit bra.

In one aspect, a bra in an integral configuration includes a flat-knit fabric element having a flat-knit edge without surrounding fabric structure such that the flat-knit edge is not surrounded by the fabric structure from which the fabric element has been removed. In addition, the flat-knit fabric element includes at least a first bra support region and a second bra support region. The various parts of the flat-knit bra are in an integral configuration with the flat-knit bra body, and specific yarns for performance within each section of the central flat-knit bra material (i.e. bra body, bra straps, bra wings and bra cups, etc.). It may include specific yarns for performance along the flat knitted circumferential stretch edges. Such a circumferential stretch area is considered part of the flat-knit bra, is not a separate element or sewn element, and is understood to be not a removable fabric from around the integral flat-knit bra. In other words, the periphery of the flat-knit bra includes simultaneously flat knitted elastic edges.

In another aspect, the flat-knit support bra includes a bra cup region formed in a first stitch shape, the first stitch shape having a plurality of flat-knit stitches that provide a first elastic property to the bra cup region. The flat-knit area support bra further includes a bra strap area formed in a second stitch shape, the second stitch shape is different from the first stitch shape, and the second stitch shape is a second stretch and contraction in the bra strap area. It has a plurality of flat-knit stitches that provide properties. Additionally, the bra is formed in a third stitch shape and includes a bra base region formed in an integral configuration with both the first stitch shape and the second stitch shape, and the third stitch shape is a plurality of the bra base region providing a third elasticity property. Has a flat-knit stitch. In some embodiments, the integral configuration of the bra cup area, bra strap area, and bra base area is a flat-knit edge without surrounding fabric structure such that the flat-knit edge is not surrounded by the fabric structure from which the flat-knit area support bra is to be removed. Includes.

In one aspect, a bra in an integral configuration comprises a flat-knit fabric element having a flat-knit edge, the flat-knit fabric element comprising at least a first bra support region and a second bra support region.

Another aspect of the upper body flat-knit zone support garment is a first zone formed with a first stitch sequence, the first zone comprising a plurality of flat-knit stitches and a plurality of yarns, and the first stitch sequence A first zone corresponding to the first stretch modulus of the one zone; A second zone formed by a second stitch sequence, the second stitch sequence different from the first stitch sequence, the second zone comprising a plurality of flat-knit stitches and a plurality of yarns, and the second stitch sequence A second zone corresponding to the second stretch modulus of the two zones; A third zone formed in a third stitch sequence and formed in an integral configuration with both the first zone and the second zone, the third zone comprising a plurality of flat-knit stitches and a plurality of yarns, and the third stitch sequence is a third zone. And a third zone corresponding to a third stretch modulus of the zone, and the integral configuration of the first zone, the second zone and the third zone comprises a flat-knit edge.

In yet another aspect, a knit-to-shape torso support garment having a flat-knit edge comprises at least one flat-knit shaping zone corresponding to at least one of a first stitch type and a first yarn type; At least one flat-knit support zone corresponding to one or more of a second stitch type and a second yarn type; At least one flat-knit lockout zone corresponding to one or more of a third stitch type and a third yarn type, at least one flat-knit shaping zone, at least one flat-knit support zone, at least One flat-knit lockout area is flat knitted in a one-piece configuration.

Thus, a flat-knit bra can be formed into a single flat-knit shape coming out of a flat knitting machine with an integral knit configuration including a bra cup, a side, a front strap portion, a rear strap portion, and a rear portion of the bra. In such a flat-knit orientation, the bra may be assembled to subsequently seal at least one seam that couples the side of the flat-knit body to the tubular structure. Such sutures may include suture features coupled to the flat-knit bra on at least a portion of the flat-knit bra material. The suture feature is an opening to the bra structure, such as an opening along the posterior portion of the flat-knit bra, an opening proximate one or more of the final assembly seams of the flat-knit bra material, and a closure mechanism proximate the midline anterior or midline posterior portion of the bra Position and closed position can be provided.

Further, based on the flat-knit orientation of the front strap portion and the rear strap portion, an additional assembly aspect may include attaching the front strap portion to the rear strap portion. In another aspect, the single strap portion of the flat-knit bra base, once assembled, can include the full length of the strap that provides the strap structure to both the front and rear sides of the wearer. As such, in one aspect, the flat-knit bra base may include a left portion and a right portion coupled to the tubular structure, and one or more strap portions coupled to complete the vibration circumference structure. In another aspect, the flat-knit bra can be strapless, so that it can have an integral configuration of bra cups, sides, and backs with flat-knit edges and no strap features.

In one aspect, the corresponding front strap portion and rear strap portion may be coupled to an intermediate strap portion separate from the basic flat-knit bra structure. The middle strap portion is an example of joining strap features knitted front and rear from a flat-knit bra structure. In another aspect, the front strap portion flat knitted into the bra structure is a rear panel such as a racerback panel having an attachment point for the finished flat-knit edge of the strap feature on the flat-knit bra structure and/or It can be coupled to an insert. In other aspects, the rear panel/insert may also include an attachment point for an underarm feature of the flat-knit bra structure.

While including a number of integrated features on the top that support the wearer's breasts, flat-knit bras can have a rigid garment configuration that requires minimal assembly. In addition, flat-knit bras, whether functional, structural and/or decorative, have additional properties throughout the unitary structure based on stitch placement and yarn type, resulting in finished flat-knit edges of ready-to-wear without surrounding structures when flat knitting. Can have. In one example, a first yarn having a first yarn property can be inserted into the first zone during flat knitting, while a second yarn having a second yarn property can be inserted into a second zone adjacent to the first zone. , Can be switched between the first yarn and the second yarn using a flat knitting process. The type of yarn varied throughout the flat-knit bra may vary based on one or multiple properties. For example, the various yarns in a flat-knit bra are multi-component yarns, double-composition yarns, multi-composition yarns, conductive yarns, yarns with certain electrical properties, varying heat treatment within a single zone or multiple zones. Yarns with specific melting properties, yarns with various gauges, multiple yarn sizes, engineered yarn materials, yarns with specific characteristics and/or stretch properties, yarns with specific coloring characteristics, Discoloration yarns, quick-drying yarns, moisture-wicking yarns, yarns of various sizes/deniers, etc. may be included.

In one aspect, the stretch properties can refer to one or more properties of a region of a flat-knit bra resulting from a particular yarn type, a particular yarn placement, a particular knit stitch, and a particular shaping feature of one or more stitches in the flat-knit bra. . For example, one stretch characteristic associated with one or more regions of a flat-knit bra may include a modulus of elasticity associated with the one or more regions. In this way, different regions of the flat-knit bra include different elastic modulus values, and thus, may exhibit various elastic properties corresponding to the amount of stretching. In another example, a flat-knit bra may include a certain amount of lockout in certain areas of the bra, thus imparting certain stretch properties characterized by the minimized stretch associated with those areas. In another example, the stretch characteristics may refer to the resulting stretch direction, stretch amount, and the like.

While flat knitting bras with various yarn properties within various flat-knit bra zones, according to some aspects, a flat knitting machine optimized for flat knitting bras may be used. As such, certain yarns can be inserted into certain areas of the flat-knit bra. In one aspect, the flat-knit bra can be knitted to provide certain benefits, such as the resulting flat-knit material feel, fabric effect, finished surface or other flat-knit benefit. In one example, a commercially available flat knitting machine can be used to produce aspects of a flat-knit bra. For example, at least a portion of a flat-knit bra has a gauge within 14 stitches per inch to 18 stitches, or a gauge greater than 14 stitches per inch, greater than 16 stitches per inch, or greater than 18 stitches per inch (e.g. , 21-gauge), etc. can be produced on commercially available flat knitting machines. In another aspect, at least a portion of the flat-knit bra can be made on a commercially available flat knitting machine with specific gauges corresponding to specific flat-knit bra properties. For example, a flat knitting machine with a gauge with multiple stitches per inch optimized for a specific area and/or a specific yarn type can be used to create a flat-knit bra. Thus, one or more areas of a flat knitted bra contemplated herein may have a stitch density greater than a threshold based on gauges of a flat knitting machine used to stitch the one or more areas. For example, one or more regions may have a stitch density greater than 14 stitches, 16 stitches or 18 stitches per inch. In some aspects, it is contemplated that additional or alternative flat knitting machines may be used, such as flat knitting machines with higher gauges and/or specific mechanisms that are optimized to create a flat-knit bra.

Aspects of a flat-knit bra are provided below with reference to the different features described in FIGS. 1-11. In a first example, FIG. 1 shows the rear left strap 14, the rear left body portion 16, the front left strap 18, integrated together in an integral configuration emerging from the flat knitting machine with a finished flat-knit edge. , Front left body part (20), left bra cup (22), chest center part (24), front right strap (26), front right body part (28), right bra cup (30), rear right strap (32) ) And a flat-knit bra 10 with a garment body 12 having a rear right torso portion 34 is shown. In another aspect, the flat-knit bra 10 includes an integrated flat-knit chest band 36 and flat-knit neckline edges 38 and 42 oriented adjacent the bra middle portion 40.

Based on knitting each part of the flat-knit bra 10 using a flat knitting machine, a flat knitted row providing bra straps such as the rear left strap 14 is from one row to the next. It includes a finished edge 44 that is joined without breaking. Similarly, the flat knitted row that provides an underarm portion such as the rear right body portion 34 includes a finished edge 46 that has already been bound/finished. In another example, the flat-knitted row providing the chest support band portion of a flat-knit bra, such as chest band 36, includes an edge 48 finished in a seamless configuration with the rest of the bra material.

In one aspect of the zone flat-knit bra 10, the lower zone 50 prevents shifting of the assembled garment body 12 (i.e. assembled to the tubular structure), thereby preventing the flat-knit bra 10 ) On the wearer and may include one or more different types of yarns and/or different types of stitches. For example, the lower region 50 may have a plurality of stitches configured to create a stretchable lockout within the chest band 36, and a variable yarn type having different stretch characteristics for the remaining garment body 12, or a lower region. The flat-knit bra 10 of 50 may include a flat-knit chest band 36 having a combination of both stitch shape and yarn type to change the structure, stretch characteristics and/or lockout characteristics.

In another aspect, the middle region 62 may secure a portion of the middle to upper chest of the wearer, such as the wearer's breast supported by the left bra cup 22 and the right bra cup 30. In one example, the intermediate zone 62 is an integrated flat-knit structure for support and/or shaping, a specific yarn type isolated and flat knitted within one or more areas that alter the elasticity or appearance of the bra, and/or the intermediate zone. The flat-knit bra 10 structure of 62 may include specific stitch types, such as doubled or reduced stitches, which may change the stretch characteristics and/or lockout characteristics, respectively. In some embodiments, the left bra cup 22 and the right bra cup 30 are flat- extending from the plane of the peripheral flat-knit bra 10, such as a three-dimensional (3-D) feature of the bra 10. It may include cup shaping to add three-dimensional parts to the knitted bra. As such, the shaping stitches and/or shaping yarns incorporated in one or both of the bra cups provide a solid part to the finished overall bra structure, but the left body portion 20, the center chest portion 24 and the right body portion 28 ) Can be flat knitted in an integral configuration with adjacent garment parts. In one example, the three-dimensional portion added to the flat-knit bra may include a stitching area having a depth of 0.1 cm to 2.0 cm. In some embodiments, the added stitch density/depth that adds solids to the flat-knit bra is of a stitch, yarn, or a combination of both stitch and yarn types to extend the material of the flat-knit bra beyond the plane of the surrounding bra body. It can correspond to the number and type.

In another aspect, the one or more flat-knit features of the upper region 60 are flat-knit bra 10 on the wearer's breast by positioning the middle region 62 and/or the lower region 50 relative to the wearer's shoulder. ) Can be fixed. For example, when connecting the rear left strap 14 to the front left strap 18 and the rear right strap 32 to the front right strap 26, the upper section 60 is a flat-knit integral configuration. It can provide a wearable garment having.

As also shown in FIG. 1, various flat-knit features of the garment body 12 will be mentioned with respect to the left portion 52, the left central portion 54, the right central portion 56 and the right portion 58. I can. In one aspect, the left portion 52 and the right portion 58 may include one or more features that are flat-knitted to provide specific elastic properties to the flat-knit bra 10, which are subsequently directly or indirectly in a tubular orientation. Can be combined with each other. In some aspects, the elastic properties of the left portion 52 and the right portion 58 may be changed for the left central portion 54 and the right central portion 56. In one example, the left portion 52 and the right portion 58 may include flat-knit stitches that provide lockout properties of at least a portion of the garment body 12. In another aspect, the left central portion 54 and the right central portion 56 comprise specific stitches, specific yarn types, and/or specific support structures that are flat knitted within a single base of the garment body 12, and support, stretch and contract. Resistance, contour shaping to secure the wearer's breasts, and other integrated features of the flat-knit bra 10.

The various zones/parts described with respect to FIG. 1 are based on many types of flat-knit bra 10, such as enlarged or reduced parts of bras for targeted shaping, support, wearer sizing or ventilation. Can be changed. Similarly, the orientation of the garment body 12 can be changed during the flat knitting process, for example between a horizontal orientation and a vertical orientation relative to the garment body 12. As shown in FIG. 2, a front perspective view of a flat-knit bra 64 is knitted in a vertical orientation, and the flat knitting machine 66 has a working edge 70 from the start edge 68 along the knitting direction 72. Knitting toward In another aspect, as shown in FIG. 3, the flat-knit bra 74 can be knitted in a horizontal direction, and the flat knitting machine 66 is a working edge from the starting edge 78 along the knitting direction 76. Knitting towards (80).

While the aspects in FIGS. 1-3 are described as having both bra front features and bra back features flat knitted along a single axis, in other aspects, the flat-knit features of the garment body 12 are further examples. It can be rearranged in a variety of orientations to provide an integral structure for flat knitting the traditional bra structure. For example, FIG. 4 shows an exemplary flat with regional flat-knit features (A, B, C, D, E and F), an outer flat-knit edge 98 and a fit aperture 100. -A top view of the knitted bra 82 is shown. In this example, the rear portion 84 is flat knitted together with the front portion 86, folded along a fold line 88, joining the first edge 90 and the second edge 92 By combining the third edge 94 and the fourth edge 96, it may be assembled to be wearable. Additionally, based on the flat-knitted configuration of the bra 82, both the outer flat-knit edge 98 and the inner flat-knit edge of the fitting opening 100 have the surrounding fabric structure from which the bra 82 is to be removed. none. In some aspects, a “fit aperture” may refer to any opening on or associated with a flat-knit bra that receives the wearer. For example, the fitting opening may refer to a neck circumference line, a neckhole, a vibration circumference, an arm opening, a sleeve structure, and the like. In one aspect, the fitting opening may be created from at least a portion of the front portion of the flat-knit bra when coupled to itself or to another material (eg, the rear portion of the bra) to form a neck hole and/or a circumference.

As also shown in the example of FIG. 4, the flat-knit bra 82 may include regional features A in specific portions, such as a rear band. In one aspect, the regional feature (A) will provide reduced stretch and/or lockout of one or more portions within the regional feature (A) based on the stitch type, yarn density, or a combination of stitch type and yarn density. I can. In FIG. 4, while shown as having a consistent appearance throughout the zone feature A, the isolated portion of the bra 82 is within the zone feature A and the rest of the bra that alters the elastic properties within a particular zone. (82) Can be manipulated for the main body. In another example, the regional feature (B) has a specific stretch characteristic corresponding to the bra strap, such as a lockout feature in the regional feature (B) based on a stitch type, yarn density, or a combination of both stitch type and yarn density. Include. In another aspect, the integrated flat-knit structure of the regional feature B may facilitate additional structural support in the strap area of the bra 82. As such, the straps in the regional feature B are joined in an integral configuration with the regional feature C portion of the bra 82. In regional feature C, certain stretch characteristics may be flat knitted within bra 82 to provide a desired fit, shaping or customization of bra 82. For example, the regional feature C may include a four-way stretch feature in at least a portion of the segment of the regional feature C of the bra 82. In another aspect, the regional feature (C) has a shaping feature or increased or reduced stretch characteristics that are isolated within the regional feature (C) based on a stitch type, yarn density, or a combination of both stitch type and yarn density. Can include.

In a seamless configuration with regional features (C), the region features (D) portion of the bra 82 also provides modified stretch properties in which the stitch density and/or yarn type can be varied. In addition to changing the stretch characteristics in the regional features D corresponding to the wearer's chest cup region, the regional features D may include shaped features that are created based on stitch and/or yarn type. For example, an increase in knit stitches in the circumferential stitches of the regional features D can increase the shape of the cup region along the lower edge of the regional features D. Additionally, the reduction of knit stitches in the circumferential stitches of the regional features D can reduce the shape of the cup area along the upper edge of the regional features D. As such, the flat-knit bra 82 is manipulated within the zone feature (D) using flat-knit stitches to provide shaping and the desired amount of stretch while ensuring that it is suitable within the cup area using stitch and yarn properties I can keep it.

As also shown in FIG. 4, the regional features E may include one or more different stitch types and/or yarn densities to create a specific area between the chest cups of the regional features D. In one example, the regional features E may include a series of reduced and increased stitches to create a vent that provides air permeability of at least a portion of the bra 82. A further aspect of the bra 82 is a regional feature (F) along the front lower edge of the bra 82 with lockout and/or stretch properties corresponding to the desired flat-knit function of the portion of the bra 82. Includes. In one example, the stretch characteristics of the front zone feature F may correspond to at least a portion of the stretch characteristics of the rear zone feature A. As such, in another aspect, the flat-knit bra includes a certain level of lockout in the regional features [B (strap) and F (band)], while the regional features [A (rear) and C (front). )] can provide a certain level of stretching properties (eg, 4-way stretching).

In addition to varying the yarns within the various yarns of the bra 82, in some aspects, one or more yarns may be varied based on a particular color pattern or placement within the overall bra structure. For example, the flat knitting method can be used to knit color emblems, logos, branding indicators, and the like. As such, based on isolating the yarn in the flat knitting process between the zones of the flat-knit bra, the specific color yarn is knitted at a specific location for various visual effects, while the structure of the yarn flat knitted in an integral configuration and You can change the way you support it.

The exemplary regional features A, B, C, D, E and F of FIG. 4 are examples of one arrangement of stitches and/or yarns in a flat-knit bra. Although shown with respect to the regional feature E, a further aspect of the bra 82 includes a ventilation structure knitted to the garment body at various locations of the bra 82. Similarly, in aspects herein, lockout and stretch characteristics are discussed with respect to specific bra portions, while in other aspects, various lockout and stretch characteristics within the bra may be adjusted to target specific locations or specific properties of various bra structures. have. In one aspect, the various zone features provide wearer comfort, lightweight material properties, breathable features, lockout zones, specific stretch properties, or any combination of material features resulting from the flat knitting process in an integral configuration of a flat-knit bra. It can be flat knitted to do.

Referring to FIG. 5, an exemplary flat-knit bra 102 includes a front portion 104 and a rear portion 106 (eg, a “racerback” portion). In an aspect, one or both of the front portion 104 and the rear portion 106 may be flat knitted to provide a bra structure free of surrounding fabric structures. In other words, the front portion 104 and/or the rear portion 106 can be flat knitted without having to be cut out from the panel of surrounding material. In the example of FIG. 5, the front portion 104 is flat-corresponding to the upper left edge 118, the upper right edge 120, the left sewing edge 122 and the right sewing edge 124 of the rear portion 106. It includes a knit edge 108, a left strap edge 110, a right strap edge 112, a left sewing edge 114 and a right sewing edge 116. In some embodiments, the anterior portion 104 includes a left chest cup area 126 and a right chest cup area 128, a middle area 130, a left wing area 132, a right wing area 134, a strap area 138. ) And a chest band area 140, while the posterior portion 106 includes a posterior area 136. In one aspect, the wing region may refer to an armpit portion or an armpit region near the vibration circumference portion of the bra. In another aspect, the wings of a flat-knit bra, such as the left wing region 132 and the right wing region 134, may refer to any region between the rear region of the bra and the chest cup region in the form when worn.

Additionally, the various areas throughout the front portion 104 and rear portion 106 are stretch properties, lockout properties, knit structures, yarn types, variations in stitch structure, variations in yarn types, increase areas, decrease areas, and shaping. With additional bra features and specific breast support areas for flat knitting without the surrounding fabric structures from which bras have to be removed, including one or more different bra area properties, such as a braided area, vent structure, or a combination of such bra area properties A flat-knit bra 102 may be provided.

In one aspect, the rear portion 106 may comprise a breathable mesh material or other material separate from the flat knitted configuration of the bra front portion 104. In other aspects, the proportions and/or characteristics of one or more features of the flat-knit bra may be customized to provide a flat-knit bra configured to fit various wearer's body shapes. For example, the single flat-knit bra front portion may include characteristics corresponding to both a first user having a first size and a second user having a second size different from the first size. As such, the customized wearability of a flat-knit bra is one or more yarn features, regional features, structural features, functional aspects, bra front features, bra back features, or a combination of these various aspects of flat-knit bras. It can be manipulated and handled.

For a specific region of the bra and/or a specific feature of a specific region, as shown in the exemplary enlarged portion 142 of the flat-knit bra 150 of FIG. 6, the integrated flat-knit feature includes the desired structure and Bras, while maintaining a finished material with a flat-knit edge 144, an integral configuration between zones/areas and a "knit to shape" structure, in that it comes from a flat knitting machine with features It can be incorporated into various support zones. Additionally, the surrounding fabric material is not cut from the flat-knit edge 144, manufacturing waste is minimized, and yarn material is saved. During the flat knitting process, the various stitch types include a first region 146 corresponding to the chest band, a second region 148 corresponding to the middle ventilated region, a third region 152 corresponding to the wearer's breast and the wearer's armpits. Can be used to create a fourth zone 154 corresponding to.

In another aspect, as shown in FIG. 7, the exemplary enlarged portion 156 of the flat-knit bra 162 exhibits fabric properties in contrast to the adjacent bra body region 160 and/or chest band region 166. It includes a chest cup region 158 having specific stretch properties based on the particular stitch/yarn used within the chest cup region 158 to change. As such, concentrated knit stitch 164 and spaced knit stitch 166 can be used to create a shaped region 168 as part of the chest cup region 158. In one aspect, one or more regions of the flat-knit bra have a knitted channel for cushioning, such as a channel large enough to removably or non-removably accommodate a cup pad or cup lining corresponding to at least a portion of the cup region 158 Can include. For example, a flat-knit bra may include flat-knit cup channels and/or flat-knit pockets with a peripheral bra body to receive cup pads and/or cup liners.

In one aspect, a bra body, such as bra body region 160, may refer to any portion of a flat-knit bra that provides a common base. For example, a bra body may include any portion of a flat-knit bra for joining one or more regions. In another example, the flat-knit bra body may include support features other than straps, cups, chest bands, and/or wings. In yet another example, the bra body may include a specific stretch feature or zone structure that forms an overall support for the outer periphery of the wearer's torso. As such, the bra body may refer to a region between two bra cups, a region between a bra cup and a bra strap, a region between a bra cup and a bra wing, and a region between a bra wing and a rear portion of the bra.

Next, referring to FIG. 8, an exemplary bra body 172 of a flat-knit bra 170 includes a peripheral flat-knit chest band 176, a flat-knit edge/neck circumference line 178, and a cup 180. And a bra central part 182 and an integrated support structure 174 in a seamless configuration. In one example, the integrated support structure 174 may provide a channel for receiving the cable 184 and/or a feeder structure for guiding the cable or other structure. Such integrated support structure 174 channels may be flat knitted to include one or more additional support structures in bra body 172. For example, the cables 184 may include cables and/or cords within the integrated support structure 174 to provide fixed and/or adjustable support to the bra cup 180. As such, one or more support structures associated with the integrated support structure 174 may be used to provide an additional lift to the lower side 186 of the cup 180. In another aspect, the integrated support structure 174 may be flat knitted at different locations within a flat-knit bra, such as the integrated support structure of the strap portion of the bra. Additionally, the integrated support structure 174 may be flat knitted as the cable 184 is knitted within the tunnel and/or opening. In another aspect, the integrated support structure 174 and/or cable 184 provides an adjustment system for a flat-knit bra, for example through the insertion of a functional cable, a fixed cable or a movable cable, an adjustable cable, etc. Can be used to do. As such, the integrated support structure 174 and/or the cable 184 may be basted at a specific location after being knitted into the material of a flat-knit bra. In one aspect, the cable 184 structure can be pulled up and tightened to provide specific support to specific areas of the flat-knit bra. In addition, yarns with certain properties (eg, different stiffness or structure from surrounding yarns) can be knitted into a flat-knit bra without the need to separately insert and increase the volume of the bra's material.

In the exemplary flat-knit bra 188 of FIG. 9, various isolation zones are created within bra 188 based on changed yarns and/or knit stitches. For example, a first yarn having a first stretch property can be used for the zone 190, a second yarn having a second stretch property can be used for the zone 192, and a third yarn having a third stretch property Yarn can be used in the zone 194, the yarn having the fourth stretching property can be used in the zone 196, the fifth yarn having the fifth stretching property can be used in the zone 198, and the sixth stretching property A sixth yarn with properties can be used in zone 200. In some aspects, the various regions within the flat-knit bra 188 may include similar, the same, or different stretch characteristics, depending on the desired stretch characteristics, bra location or zone placement. For example, the yarn type and/or stitch type on the outer edge of a particular area can be varied to provide specific structural properties with respect to the adjacent flat-knit bra structure.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 10, the flat-knit bra 202 is a flat-knit surrounding the first zone 206, the second zone 208, the third zone 210 and the fourth zone 212. It may include an edge 204. In this example, the third region 210 may include the entire strap or strap portion that forms the flat-knit strap of the bra 202. As such, the third region 210 can include a continuous flat-knit feature that is assembled with a common flat-knit edge 204. Alternatively, the flat-knit strap of the third zone 210 may be knitted in an unattached form in at least one position for later sewing during final assembly. Accordingly, referring to FIG. 11, the flat-knit bra 214 includes an integrated bra structure 216 having at least one seam on the rear side of the bra 218. In this example, the bra body can be joined together along the flat-knit edge defining the boundary of the bra body, without the need to remove the surrounding material. In some embodiments, further manipulation of the flat-knit bra 214 may include steaming, shaping, blocking, and/or of one or more portions of the bra, such as a breast cup having a solid against the surrounding bra structure 216 Or may include shaping. In another aspect, the flat-knit bra 214 may be subjected to one or more additional processing steps, such as thermal fusion of the yarn, or a colored application applied to the flat-knit surface.

In another aspect, the flat-knit bra 214 can be knitted in a fully fashioned manner to provide all structural features functional zones to provide the support and stretch properties of the finished bra. In another aspect, the flat-knit bra 214 may be provided with a flat-knit front portion and a separately attached rear panel. In this example, the back panel may be flat knitted, or may be a separate material made with various fabrics or construction methods. Additionally, the flat-knit bra front portion is a combination of additional portions to the flat-knit bra, e.g., of additional cup inserts or lining features to the flat-knit bra base if the bra base is flat-knitted with the flat-knit edge. It can be manipulated to facilitate bonding. Flat-knit bras can also be created with flat-knit edges that can be joined to additional features such as separate chest bands, label inserts, and the like. Fully knitted flat-knit bras, but finished flat-knit bras, heat treatment applied to specific parts of the bra during shaping or lockout, ironing of heat transfer labels or other identifying information, or separate embroidery, knitted or woven Additional treatments such as attachment of features may also be applied.

In one aspect, an additional layer for support, comfort or wearability, such as a separate bra lining material bonded to the flat-knit bra front, may be added to or incorporated into the flat-knit bra structure. As such, the flat-knit bra front portion may have the resulting material surface created with various areas, yarns, stitches, structures, solids, etc., but the inner surface of the flat-knit bra front portion is bonded to a separate liner treatment and -It can create a smoother surface than the inner surface of the front of the knit bra. In another embodiment, during flat knitting, a bra lining with a smoother surface may be knitted adjacent to but separate from the flat-knit bra front. In this way, while the front part of the bra is knitted with the yarn of the first orientation, and the lining worn directly on the skin of the wearer is knitted with the yarn of the second orientation, the integrated structure of the bra can be maintained. Many aspects of flat-knit bras including a flat-knit bra front portion having a first layer of flat-knit zone structure and a second layer of smoother structure for skin contact include one or more flat knitting of an integral bra structure. Different knitting techniques can be used.

Additional aspects of the flat-knit support garment are described in connection with FIGS. 12-16, wherein various flat-knit bra materials are shown in unassembled form. Initially, FIG. 12 includes an exemplary flat-knit support garment 220 in the form of a bra 222 to support the wearer's breast. As will be appreciated, although shown herein in the form of a bra 222, one or more features of the flat-knit support garment 220 may include a camisole, bodysuit, base layer, shirt liner, or bra 222. It can be incorporated into an additional support garment for the upper body, such as other support garments with flat-knit features. Exemplary bra 222 includes cup zone 226, body zone 228, wing zone 230, back zone 232, chest band zone 234, strap zone 236, and transition zone 238. And a flat-knit material 224 having various integral flat-knit regions throughout. Transition zone 238 may include the same flat-knit material 224 as within strap zone 236 or rear zone 232. Alternatively, transition zone 238 may be adjacent rear zone 232, such as a portion of flat-knit material 224 having the same shape as wing zone 230 and/or body zone 228. And/or one or more changes in flat-knit material 224 compared to strap region 236.

In some aspects, each zone comprises at least one characteristic different from at least one adjacent flat flat-knit zone, such as yarn type and/or stitch sequence. Thus, the flat-knit cup region 226 may comprise a first stitch sequence, while an adjacent body region may comprise at least a portion of the second stitch sequence. Similarly, the flat-knit body region 228 may comprise a first yarn type, while the adjacent flat-knit strap region 236 is at least one different from the yarn type of the flat-knit body region 228. It may include yarn types. Thus, each flat-knit zone in the seamless flat-knit material may include yarn deformation and stitch deformation that alter the elastic properties and resulting modulus of different portions of the support garment 220. For example, the cup section 226 of the bra 222 can include a low elastic modulus, while the body section 228 can include a low elastic modulus (low elasticity compared to the cup area 226). , The rear zone 232 provides a high elastic modulus zone. The strap zone 236 may include a non-stretch zone (ie, a lockout zone), and an intermediate stretch transition zone 238 is between the non-stretch strap zone 236 and the highly stretched rear zone 232.

Since each of the neck circumference edge 240 and the vibration circumference edge 242 includes a flat knitted material 224 produced without seaming or finish, the finished neck circumference edge 240 and the finished vibration circumference edge 242 is integral with the flat-knit structure of the bra 222 and instead supports the integral knitted structure within the support garment 220. Such a finished edge structure of the neckline edge 240 and the oscillatory edge 242 is maintained through a boundary change between the support regions of the bra 222 in a seamless flat-knit configuration. A seamless first boundary 250 between the cup region 226 and the body region 228 can be achieved through flat knitting by maintaining at least one common yarn between the cup region 226 and the body region 228. have. In another aspect, the first seamless boundary 250 between the cup region 226 and the body region 228 allows flat knitting by at least one common knit stitch between the cup region 226 and the body region 228. Is achieved through In some embodiments, a seamless boundary between adjacent flat-knit regions may provide an intermediate region, the intermediate region having its own stitch shape, and comprising all adjacent stitched portions to provide the intermediate region. .

Between additional adjacent sections of the flat-knit support garment 220, a seamless second boundary 252 between the bra body 228 and the wing section 230, between the wing section 230 and the rear section 232. A seamless third boundary 254 of, and a seamless agent between a portion of the body region 228 that is all for the chest band region 234, a portion of the wing region 230, and a portion of the rear region 232. Similar boundaries may exist, such as 4 boundary 258. Continuing in an upward direction along the y-axis, such as in the direction of knitting of the flat-knit material 224, an additional seamless boundary is a seamless material between the strap zone 236 and the bra body 228 and/or the transition zone 238. 5 borders 256 may be included.

When a plurality of flat-knit regions are flat knitted to create a seamless configuration with each adjacent region, the first seam edge 244 may be configured to couple to the second seam edge 246, while the third seam edge Edge 248 may be configured to couple to fourth seam edge 250. In some aspects, the forming region 260 in the flat-knit material 224 includes a first cup forming region 262 and a second cup forming region 264, one proximate to the seamless first boundary 250. The above flat-knit features surround each of the first cup forming regions 262 and the second cup forming regions 264, which facilitates the forming of each bra 222 cup. Transition flat-knit structure along and/or proximate the seamless boundary 250 surrounding each flat-knit cup region 226, as discussed in more detail below for the molded support garment 220. May stabilize the surrounding flat-knit material 224 during shaping or other finishing in the shaping area 260.

As also shown in FIG. 12, a garment boundary 266 is marked with respect to the lower edge of the bra 222. As such, the bra 222 may be integrally flat knitted with a peripheral material for upper body clothing such as a camisole. In some examples, the garment boundary 266 is proximate to the circumference edge 242, the neckline edge 240 and/or the chest band region 234, such that the base with an embedded flat-knit bra 222. A support garment 220 is provided that is integral with additional support features of a torso garment such as a layered garment.

Referring next to FIG. 13, another exemplary flat-knit support garment 268 for a bra 270 includes a cup section 274, a body section 276, a wing section 278, a first rear section 280 ), second posterior region 282, strap region 284, transition region 286, and a seamless flat-knit material 272 with various integral flat-knit regions throughout, such as chest-support region 288. ). Transition zone 286 may include the same flat-knit material 272 as in one or both of second rear zone 282 and strap zone 284. Alternatively, transition zone 286 may include one or more features of flat-knit material 272, such as within wing zone 278 and/or first rear zone 280.

In some aspects, each zone comprises at least one characteristic different from at least one adjacent flat-knit zone, such as yarn type and/or stitch sequence. Such variations within the flat-knit support garment 268 are for both the level of support provided to the wearer based on each zone of the bra 270, the function during wear, and the ease of pulling on and off the wearer's head. , Change the modulus of elasticity within each zone of the flat-knit bra. Thus, the flat-knit cup region 274 may comprise a first stitch sequence, while the adjacent body region 276 may comprise at least a portion of the second stitch sequence. Similarly, the flat-knit body region 276 may comprise a first yarn type, while the adjacent flat-knit strap region 284 is at least one different from the yarn type of the flat-knit body region 276. It may include yarn types. Thus, each flat-knit area in seamless flat-knit material 272 may include yarn deformation and stitch deformation that alter the elastic properties and resulting modulus of different portions of the support garment 268. For example, the cup region 274 of the bra 270 may include a medium elastic modulus, the body region 276 may include a low elastic modulus (medium stretch compared to the cup region 226), Wing region 278 may include a lower elastic modulus (lower elasticity compared to body area 276), and strap area 284 and chest-support area 288 have a non-stretch modulus (ie, lockout). While may include, the first rear zone 280 provides an intermediate stretch modulus zone, and the second rear zone 282 provides a high stretch modulus zone. Transition zone 286 may exhibit one or more stretching properties, such as a low elastic modulus adjacent to second rear area 282 and a medium elastic modulus adjacent strap area 284.

In some aspects, one or more yarns are flat knitted within each region of the flat-knit support garment 268. In some examples, the multi-component yarns, with corresponding variations in bra support associated with stitch sequences, partial knits, inlaid yarns, and other integral structures of the flat-knit material, each zone or multi-zone of a flat-knit bra. Can be optimized for use within. One yarn flat knitted across one or more regions of the bra may comprise a first yarn material that is covered or uncovered with a second yarn. For example, a yarn flat knitted through one or more areas of a bra includes nylon and/or textured polyester yarns covering the spandex yarn, resulting in denier, specific filament size and final ply ( ply). For example, the base yarn of a flat-knit bra may comprise polyester and/or nylon yarn wrapped around the spandex yarn. For example, 40 to 50 denier of PET and 40 to 50 denier of nylon may be used to cover 70 to 80 denier of spandex. In another embodiment, 42-46 dtex of PET and 42-46 dtex of nylon may be covered by 75-81 dtex of spandex. As such, according to some embodiments, polyester and nylon yarns can be used to cover (ie, wrap around) the spandex yarn.

In one example, the covered yarn may be used in one or more areas of a flat-knit support garment. In another example, the covered yarn is flat-knit support, along with variations of stitch sequences, support structures, inlaid yarns, and other integrated features that provide varying support functions across the garment having a first yarn content. Can be used in all areas of clothing. In another aspect, at least a portion of the support garment 268 can include uncovered yarn, while an adjacent portion of the support garment 268 can include covered yarn. Because of the integral flat-knit structure of the flat-knit support garment 268, such a change between covered and uncovered yarns can occur across the knitted area of the bra, within the knitted area of the bra, and the variety of bras. It can be implemented in a seamless configuration within the organic zone arrangement in the zone. Uncovered elastic edges along the periphery of the flat-knit support garment, such as e.g. stretch zone 298, comprise spandex yarns suitable for contact with the wearer's skin, to facilitate wearing and taking off the support garment. Can be configured. Such elastic edges with uncovered spandex yarns with a softer feel are seamlessly transitioned to the flat-knit body of the bra, e.g., such that the elastic edges are wing sections 278, body sections 276, strap sections 284 ), and where the elastic edge transitions to the adjacent covered area, such as where it transitions to the rear region 280, from uncovered yarn to covered yarn.

In addition to changing the texture of the material between the uncovered yarn at the elastic edge and the main portion of the support garment with the covered yarn, one or more variations in the yarn content and/or stitch sequence may result in material properties, e.g. For example, it can be used to create lockout properties in specific areas of the bra. For example, a strap zone with lockout properties may include certain harder yarns instead of or in addition to the covered yarns of the support garment. In other aspects, variations in yarn content throughout the flat-knit support garment may correspond to one or more of the zones shown in each example. Although shown in this example as having a specific graphic element, each region in the flat-knit support structure has a common yarn color, thereby using the same color yarn but using a different stitch sequence to change between adjacent regions. Can be hidden.

Additional adjustments to the yarn content of the flat-knit support garment 268 include the weight of the yarn, the thickness of the material achieved using the specific yarn in each zone, the yarn selection corresponding to the performance characteristics of the resulting support garment, and the flat- It may include variations associated with optimization of other yarns needed to create the integrated features of the knit support garment. As one example of such yarn selection, aspects of flat-knit support yarns may include yarns of 30 to 55 denier. In other embodiments, the flat knitted yarns in various regions of the support garment comprise 40-50 denier yarns, while in other embodiments, about 44 denier yarns may be flat knitted in one or more regions of the flat-knit support garment. have. Thus, specific denier yarns can be knitted within various portions of a flat-knit bra, based on the desired yarn size for each portion of the bra, and depending on the machine gauge of the resulting flat-knit material and the desired stitches per inch. .

With continued reference to FIG. 13, the boundary between adjacent flat-knit areas of the bra 270 is a seamless first boundary 300, a seamless second boundary 302, a seamless third boundary 304, and A fourth seamless border 306 and a fifth seamless border 308 may be included. As described above with respect to FIG. 12, such seamless borders include at least one flat-knit stitch sequence and/or a variation of the flat-knit yarn type while retaining the integral bra material 272. (272).

The finished neck circumference edge 290 and the finished vibrating circumference edge 294 are integral with the flat-knit configuration of the bra 270 without additional knitting structure, edging, seaming or finishing, instead of supporting clothing ( 268). However, in some embodiments, the support garment 268 includes a high power stretchable region 298 abutting one or both of the neckline edge 290 and the oscillatory edge 294. For example, a first yarn may form an integral structure of bra material 272, while a second yarn is a high-power stretch to create a circumferential stretch edge 296 and/or a neck stretch edge 292. Zone 298 can be formed. Aspects of bra 270 include a first yarn type across bra material 272 and a second yarn type across high power stretch zone 298.

In some embodiments, the forming region 310 in the flat-knit material 272 is a transition flat-knit structure along and/or proximate the first seamless boundary 300 surrounding the flat-knit cup region 274. This transition flat-knit structure stabilizes the surrounding flat-knit material 272 during shaping or other finishing in the shaping area 310. In addition, the clothing boundary 312 shown near the lower edge of the bra 270 may be integrally flat knitted with a peripheral material for upper body clothing such as a camisole. In some examples, the garment boundary 312 is proximate the circumferential stretch edge 296, the bra material circumference 294, and the neck stretch edge 292, such that the garment boundary 312 is an embedded flat- It is integral with the additional support features of a torso garment, such as a base layer garment with a knit bra 270.

In FIG. 14, a top view of an exemplary support garment 314 for a flat-knit bra 316 is shown with reference to a symmetrical boundary 338, cup section 320, body section 322, wing section 324. ), a flat-knit seamless bra with a rear section 326, a strap section 328, a first border 330, a second border 332, a third border 334 and a fourth border 336 Material 318 is included. The forming region 340 of the bra 316 includes an organically shaped first boundary 330 surrounding the cup region 320. The first boundary 330 of such an organic shape corresponds to the mold size for at least one finish of the bra material 318, and facilitates molding within the forming area 340, the organic first boundary ( At least one flat-knit feature proximate to 330. Whether corresponding to the shaping area 340 or to another finishing process applied to the bra material 318, the aspect of the bra 316 is not only an organic boundary such as the second boundary 332, but also the fourth boundary 336. Includes all linear boundaries such as. In some examples, various boundaries in bra 316 corresponding to transitions between specific regions of the bra may be progressive transitions between stitch sequences. For example, the fourth boundary 336 may include a gradual transition from a stitch sequence in a strap region to a stitch sequence in a back region.

Once finished, based on the desired performance of the bra 316, the support garment 314 can be placed between adjacent flat-knit areas with various stretch properties, such as a specific flat-knit boundary property between the high stretch zone and the low stretch zone. It can contain specific locations of seamless borders. Such an integral boundary and/or transition region may provide for further optimization of the functional cup region 320, body region 322, wing region 324, rear region 326 and/or strap region 328. As mentioned above, such a transitional boundary between two different flat-knit regions of the bra can facilitate shaping of at least a portion of the bra. For example, the first boundary 330 between the cup region 320 and the body region 322 provides a shaping structure at or near the cup region 320, resulting in a pre-shaped and/or preliminary It can be a molded flat-knit bra material. In addition, pre-shaped cup zones 320, such as flat-knit cup zones with partial knitted and/or short rows, proximate the first boundary 330 may be molded with a shallower mold and/or a lower temperature mold treatment. To change the shape of the cup region 320 and maintain the surrounding body region 322.

As shown in the support garment 346 of FIG. 15, the integral patterning feature 348 may be incorporated with the bra 316 and is shown in cutaway view from the bra material 318. The integral patterning feature 348 may include one or more flat-knit structures adjacent to or integrally knitted with the bra material 318. As such, at least one needle can be used adjacent to the flat knitting needle creating bra material 318 to provide a visual change of material associated with patterning feature 348. In some aspects, the integral patterning feature 348 may be any of a variety of flats corresponding to the cup region 320, the body region 322, the wing region 324, the rear region 326 and/or the strap region 328. -May include knit stitch sequences, yarn variations and/or knitting techniques. For example, the integral patterning feature 348 may include a first pattern region 350 corresponding to the cup region 320 and the body region 322, a second pattern region 352 corresponding to the wing region 324, And a third pattern region 354 corresponding to the rear region 326. Without creating a separate layer of flat-knit material, in some aspects, the integral patterning feature 348 has a common needle bed with a different yarn feeder than that knitted within the bra material 318. Can be used. In another aspect, the patterning feature may be a second layer of material bonded to bra 316. As shown in the example of FIG. 15, a common elastic edge 342 with a consistent edge width 344 surrounds the perimeter of the support garment 346 and seamlessly transitions to the outer flat-knit elastic edge bra 316. ) Any number of yarn combinations and/or stitch combinations within) can be made easier.

The flat-knit bra of FIG. 16 illustrates the exemplary flat-knit bra of FIG. 14 with a plurality of in-lay features according to various aspects. In particular, the support garment 356 includes one or more inlay features 358 having an inlay start 360 along the y axis and an inlay end 362 along the y axis. The inlay depth 364 corresponds to the beginning and the end of the inlay feature 358 inserted during flat knitting across the x axis and carried in the seven directions along the bra material 318. In some examples, inlay features 358 may be inserted along the x-axis or y-axis relative to support garment 356. However, in other aspects, the inlay features 358 may be incorporated into the flat-knit material 318 in a diagonal fashion with respect to the x and y axes. The level of additional support provided by the inlay feature 358 may correspond to the material content of such yarns, whether stretch or non-stretch yarns, flexibility with surrounding flat-knit materials, or resistance to other forms of shaping. .

Referring next to the assembled flat-knit garment 366 of FIGS. 17-21, various aspects of an exemplary flat-knit bra are shown from various perspectives and at various stages of shaping and/or finishing. Although shown in an assembled view, one or more features of one or more unassembled flat-knit support garments (e.g., aspects of the unassembled flat-knit support garments described herein) are shown in FIGS. 17-21. It may be included in various aspects of the assembled flat-knit support garment described above. Similarly, the integrated features of one or more flat-knit support garments for the upper body, zone properties, support zones, transition boundaries between adjacent support zones, fabric elements, shaping structures, and a number of additional features are described in partial views, top views, side views , Whether shown in a rear view, a perspective view, and/or a three-dimensional view may be included in one or more aspects described.

The support garment 366 includes a perforated first rear section 372, a second rear section 374, a strap section 376, a wing section 378, an air permeable midline section 380, a cup section 382 and A bra 368 is provided with bra material 370 having a chest band area 384. The flat-knit bra 368 also includes an elastic edge 388 adjacent to the perimeter of the bra material 370. The elastic edge 388 may continue along some or all of the perimeter of the bra material 370 assembled as part of the integral flat-knit structure of the torso support garment 366. As also shown in FIG. 17, forming zones 386, including cup zones 382, appear preformed with a pucker around the organic edge of each cup zone 382. Bra 368 may be assembled and/or molded without surrounding fabric, including an amount of flat-knit shaping within cup region 382 of bra material 370, as viewed from the rear of FIG. 18. As such, the bra 368 may be in an unassembled or assembled orientation during the finishing of the forming zone 386.

Next, referring to FIG. 19, the flat-knit support garment 390 includes a bra 392 having a plurality of flat-knit shaping structures integral with the bra material 394. In one example, material 394 comprises a flat knitted structure that is generally oriented in a first plane, while the flat-knit shaping structure adds solids to one or more regions of the bra, thereby displacing those regions from the first plane. Displace it to the second plane. For example, the cup region 400 may be shaped with respect to the peripheral body region 402, the wing region 406, the strap region 398 and/or the chest band region 404. In some aspects, the integral elastic edge 408 surrounding the arm opening and neck opening of the bra 392 facilitates flat knitting of all portions of the bra 392 into an integral structure. For example, a first yarn may be used in bra material 394 to create a shaping, such as shaping within cup region 400. However, the first yarn may include one or more material qualities that are undesirable on the skin-contacting surface of the support garment 390, and the integral stretchable edge 408 is a material more adapted to contact the wearer from the first yarn. 2 Can be used to transfer to yarn. Similarly, one or more of the yarns used within shaping zone 410 may exhibit more rigid properties compared to surrounding bra material 394, and integral stretchable edges 408 may have a more flexible finished support garment 390 as well as It is possible to provide a seamless transition. In the rear view of FIG. 20, the support garment 390 includes a perforated region 412 along the rear portion of the bra 293, and the flat-knit solid portion corresponds to at least the cup region 400.

In the example of FIG. 21, the support garment 414 provides a bra 416 having a bra material 418 having a peripheral elastic edge 420 and a cup region 422 reinforced with a three-dimensional knit structure 424. Such a three-dimensional knit structure 424 may include a series of flat knitted stitch sequences and/or yarn variations or additions that increase the material depth within the cup region 422. In some embodiments, the bra 416 further includes a body region 426, a chest band region 428, a strap region 430, and a wing region 432, all of which finish within the shaping region 434. To surround and support the flat-knit shaping structure of the cup region 422.

22 is a plan view of a flat-knit bra having a first flat-knit layer and a second layer, according to various aspects. The support garment 436 of FIG. 22 includes a first bra material 440, a second bra material 442, a cup area 444, a body area 446, an edge area 448, a strap area 450, and And a bra 438 having a chest band area 452. An aspect of the bra 438 may include a rough material hand 454 inside the bra 438, such as The material feel 454 can be separated from the wearer's torso based on a second liner layer 442 having a softer material feel 456. As such, the elastic material of the edge region 448 is a bra (bra). The first bra material 440 and the second liner layer may be bonded along the outer edge of the 438.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 23, a corrugated and preformed view of the support garment 458 is a bra material in the form of a preformed flat-knit bra with a first amount of shaping relative to the surrounding material. It includes a bra 460 with 462. For example, bra material 462 may contain a plurality of cup zones 464, strap zones 468, chest band zones 470 and solids and/or flat-knit shapings 472 adjacent body zones 466. May include an indication of. The flat-knit shaping 472 of the cup region 464 may be measured for a non-shaping solid 474 within the bra material 462. For example, the predetermined amount of the three-dimensional portion 476 may be formed only inside a portion of the bra material 462, such as the inside of the cup region 464, such a three-dimensional portion 476 is at least a portion of the bra material 462 Compared to this, it is a volume increase part of the bra 460.

Referring to the assembled support garment 478 of FIG. 24, the flat-knit bra of FIG. 23 is a rear view of the cup section 464 after shaping to provide a molded cup solid 480 within the shaping section 482. In a perspective view, it is shown. Similarly, the rear region 484 is positioned adjacent the wing region 486 and the body region 466 to counteract opposing shaping within the cup region 464. In a front view of support garment 478, FIG. 25 shows an added elastic edge 488 that can be knitted integrally with the peripheral flat-knit features of bra 460. Based on the thickness and/or width of the elastic edge 488, an edge area 490 capable of maintaining certain elastic properties in one or more directions after shaping within the shaping zone 482 is located at the perimeter of the bra 460. Can be created adjacent.

The chest band region of each aspect of the flat-knit bra discussed so far has proposed at least one flat-knit feature within the chest band region, and a seamless transition between at least a portion of the chest band region and the adjacent bra region. In the example of FIG. 26, the stitch sequence 492 for at least a portion of the flat-knit bra chest band area is a first row 494, a second row 496, a third row 498, and a fourth row 500. ), a fifth column 502 and a sixth column 504. Thus, first row 494 and second row 496 are the third row 498, fourth row 500, fifth row 502 and sixth row 504 that provide four knitting courses. ) Previously, it could be knitted to provide two interlock tuck courses. The stitch sequence 492 further includes needles A, B, C and D as part of the repeating pattern E. In some aspects, the chest band for a flat-knit bra includes a front tuck (506), a back tuck (508), a front knit (510), a rear knit (512), and an additional front knit (514). And a rear knit 516 may be a double-knit structure. As shown in FIG. 26, in this embodiment, a transition portion may not be included between the front knit 510 and the rear knit 512 (including 0 transition portions). The flat-knit bra chest band region can include two yarn ends to provide a striping sequence, each yarn adding a flat-knit structure and resulting elastic modulus to the chest band region.

In the extended stitch sequence 492, FIG. 27 provides at least a portion of a flat-knit bra chest band area, according to various aspects. Stitch sequences 518 for at least a portion of the flat-knit bra chest band area include first row 520, second row 522, third row 524, fourth row 526, fifth row ( 528), a sixth column 530, a seventh column 532, an eighth column 534, a ninth column 536, and a tenth column 538. Thus, after the first row 520 is knitted to provide a single interlock tuck course, the second row 522, third row 524, fourth row 526, fifth row 528, A sixth row 530, seventh row 532 and eighth row 534, a ninth row 536 and tenth row 538 are followed by four tubular knitting courses. Further, the exemplary stitch sequence 518 further includes needles A, B, C and D as part of the repeating pattern F. In some aspects, the chest band for a flat-knit bra may include a front chin 540, a rear chin 542, a front knit 544, and a rear knit 546. The flat-knit bra chest band region may include three yarn ends to provide at least a portion of the desired chest band region. Additionally, the chest band region of the torso support garment may include at least a portion of the stitch sequence 492 and at least a portion of the stitch sequence 518.

Next, referring to FIG. 28, an exemplary stitch sequence 552 for at least a portion of a flat-knit bra cup region is provided in accordance with various aspects, wherein the flat-knit bra cup region is a front knit 570, transition. It may be a double-knit structure comprising 572 and a rear knit 574. The stitch sequence 552 includes a first column 554, a second column 556, a third column 558, a fourth column 560, a fifth column 562, and a sixth column 564. . Additionally, the stitch sequence 552 can be used for the various front jaws 566, rear jaws 568, front knits 570, transitions 572, and needles A, B and C corresponding to the rear knits 574. Includes repeating patterns. The flat-knit bra cup zone stitch sequence 552 may include one or more yarn types for flat knitting in various cup zone formations. For example, nylon-covered spandex yarns can be knitted along the rear bed, while uncovered yarns can be knitted on the front bed. In another aspect, the flat-knit bra cup section may include uncovered yarn on both the front and rear beds. One or more stitches in the stitch sequence 552 may be used to create shaping within the cup area, such as a predetermined amount of shaping created using partial knitting. In some aspects, partial knit, short row, and/or extra knit may refer to additional knitted stitches in the cup area of the support garment that may be knitted in any part of the cup area. That is, the shaping features created using partial knitting can be arranged organically with respect to the shape of the cup zone, such as zone shaping for the lower portion of the cup zone.

In some aspects, the cup zone stitch sequence 552 includes a covered and uncovered yarn, a full knit sequence versus a partial knit sequence, a flat-knit bra knitted intarsia on one bed of knitting needles. It may include one or more variations such as partial knitting sequences that create shaping within the material and cup regions. In some examples, the cup area stitch sequence 552 is repeated across the entire width of the cup area in the flat-knit bra material, and different stitch sequences along the boundaries of the cup area (i.e., of adjacent flat-knit body areas). Different from the stitch sequence). Thus, the repeating pattern (G) of FIG. 28 is executed across the width of the cup area having an organic shape for the surrounding bra structure, for example, flat knitted with a curved border, and the area will change along the knitting row. When it is possible to change from one stitch sequence and/or shape to another stitch sequence and/or shape integrally.

In FIG. 29, an exemplary stitch sequence for at least a portion of the flat-knit bra main rear region with first row 578, second row 580, third row 582 and fourth row 584 ( At 576, a stitch pattern is provided that repeats across the first set of needles 586 and the second set of needles 588. In some examples, the rear major interlock stitch sequence 576 of the flat-knit bra may be adjacent to the selvedge sequence of the stitch sequence 590 in FIG. 30. The exemplary stitch sequence 590 includes a first row 592, a second row 594, a third row 596 and a third row repeated across the first set of needles 600 and the second set of needles 602. Includes 4 rows 598. The rear edge stitch sequence 590 may be used to finish the flat-knit edge of the flat-knit bra material and/or transition between one flat-knit area and another flat-knit area. In some aspects, the back zone stitch sequence can be constructed using two covered yarn ends.

Finally, an exemplary stitch sequence 604 is shown in FIG. 31 and can be used to guide flat knitting of at least a portion of the flat-knit bra mesh back region, according to various aspects. The back mesh stitch sequence 604 includes a first column 606, a second column 608, a third column 610, a fourth column 612, and transition portions (A, B, C and D). do. In the sequence repeated in Fig. 31, upon completion of the transition portion (D), as the flat knitting of the rear mesh stitch sequence 604 continues in the direction of the y-axis and the knitting row crossing the x-axis, the mesh sequence of the flat knitting is zero. Continuing with a stitch sequence comprising first row 606, second row 608, third row 610, fourth row 612, and transitions E, F, G and H.

Examples of stitch sequences provided herein with repeating patterns for flat knitting of the chest band area, cup area, rear major interlock area, rear edge area and rear mesh area are the target elastic modulus of the specific area of the bra, integral with the bra material. One of the flat-knit bras, such as the location of a specific support structure, or the desired elastic modulus properties of a specific portion of the flat-knit area within the bra, and/or the desired lockout and/or support level to resist stretching within the bra material. It can be used alone or in combination within the adjacent stitch structure of the flat-knit support garment to create the above different properties. The embodiments of the exemplary stitch structures in FIGS. 26-31 are not limited to any additional stitch structures or alternative stitch structures in the flat-knit support garment for the upper body, such stitch structures herein being different parts of the bra, i.e. It is provided as an example of a flat knitting technique used to change the properties of a knitted material associated with a cup area or the like having a flat-knit stitch configuration different from the chest band area. In some aspects, the stitch structure of a particular portion of the flat-knit bra can affect the adjacent stitch structure, and any transition zone and/or boundary flat-knit area between the two zones. Such transition zones can be incorporated into flat-knit bras and other support garments for the upper body.

Any and all aspects of the flat-knit bra and any variations thereof are contemplated to be within the scope described herein. It is also contemplated that any number of stitch types or yarn types may be used throughout the flat-knit bra and within various support areas/areas. Aspects of the invention have been described for purposes of illustration rather than limitation. Alternative embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope. Skilled artisans can develop alternative means to implement the aforementioned improvements without departing from the scope of the invention.

It will be appreciated that certain features and subcombinations have utility, may be used without reference to other features and subcombinations, and are contemplated within the scope of the claims. All assembly or construction steps listed in the various figures need not be performed in the specific order described.

Claims (20)

A torso garment comprising a double-knit fabric element having a front course set and a rear course set, the double-knit fabric element comprising:
A first knit region comprising a bra cup region and having a first modulus of elasticity arising at least in part from a first stitch sequence within the first knit region; And
A second knit region comprising a chest band and having a second modulus of elasticity arising at least in part from a second stitch sequence within the second knit region, the second knit region integrally woven with the first knit region; and,
The first stitch sequence includes a plurality of interlocking tuck stitches tying a front course to each rear course, the plurality of interlocking tuck stitches:
A front chin stitch and a rear chin stitch on a first course in the first knit region, and
A front chin stitch and a rear chin stitch on a second course in the first knit region,
The front chin stitch on the first course is offset from the front chin stitch on the second course, and the rear chin stitch on the first course is offset from the rear chin stitch on the second course Phosphorus, upper body clothing. The upper body garment according to claim 1, wherein the first course is immediately adjacent to the second course. The upper body garment according to claim 1, wherein the first course and the second course are separated by one or more courses without interlocking tuck stitches. The upper body garment of claim 1, wherein the first knit region comprises a first yarn type and the second knit region comprises a second yarn type. The garment of claim 1, wherein the first stitch sequence further comprises a plurality of transitions of yarn between the front course and each rear course. 6. The upper body garment according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of transitions in the first stitch sequence includes one transition in three stitch positions. 6. The upper body garment of claim 5, wherein the second stitch sequence includes zero transitions of yarn. The upper body garment of claim 1 wherein the double-knit fabric element further comprises a third knit region comprising a rear portion. A torso garment comprising a double-knit fabric element having a front course set and a rear course set, the double-knit fabric element comprising:
A first knit region comprising a bra cup region and having a first modulus of elasticity arising at least in part from a first stitch sequence within the first knit region;
A second knit region comprising a chest band and having a second modulus of elasticity arising at least partially from a second stitch sequence within the second knit region, the second knit region integrally woven with the first knit region; And
A third knit region comprising a rear portion and having a third modulus of elasticity occurring at least partially from a third stitch sequence within the third knit region,
The first stitch sequence includes a plurality of interlocking tuck stitches tying a front course to each rear course, the plurality of interlocking tuck stitches:
A front chin stitch and a rear chin stitch on a first course in the first knit zone and
A front chin stitch and a rear chin stitch on a second course in the first knit region,
The front chin stitch on the first course is offset from the front chin stitch on the second course, and the rear chin stitch on the first course is offset from the rear chin stitch on the second course Phosphorus, upper body clothing. The upper body garment according to claim 9, wherein the first course is immediately adjacent to the second course. The upper body garment according to claim 9, wherein the first course and the second course are separated by one or more courses without interlocking tuck stitches. The upper half of claim 9, wherein the first knit zone comprises a first yarn type, the second knit zone comprises a second yarn type, and the third knit zone comprises a third yarn type. Credit clothing. 10. The upper body garment of claim 9, wherein the first stitch sequence further comprises a plurality of transitions of yarn between the front course and each rear course. 14. The garment of claim 13, wherein the second stitch sequence comprises zero transitions of yarn. 10. The garment of claim 9, wherein the first knit zone further comprises a plurality of shorter rows of knit stitches arranged between longer rows of knit stitches. A torso garment comprising a double-knit fabric element having a front course set and a rear course set, the double-knit fabric element comprising:
A first knit region comprising a bra cup region and having a first modulus of elasticity arising at least in part from a first stitch sequence within the first knit region; And
A second knit region comprising a chest band and having a second modulus of elasticity arising at least in part from a second stitch sequence within the second knit region, the second knit region integrally woven with the first knit region; and,
The first stitch sequence includes a plurality of interlocking tuck stitches tying a front course to each rear course, the plurality of interlocking tuck stitches:
A front chin stitch and a rear chin stitch on a first course in the first knit region, and
A front chin stitch and a rear chin stitch on a second course in the first knit region,
The front chin stitch on the first course is offset from the front chin stitch on the second course, and the rear chin stitch on the first course is offset from the rear chin stitch on the second course,
Wherein the double-knit fabric element comprises one or more flat-knit edges adjacent at least a portion of the second knit area. The upper body garment of claim 16, wherein the first course is immediately adjacent to the second course. The upper half of claim 16, wherein the double-knit fabric element further comprises a third knit region comprising a rear portion and having a third modulus of elasticity arising at least in part from a third stitch sequence within the third knit region. Credit clothing. The method of claim 16, wherein the at least one flat-knit edge comprises an uncoverd spandex yarn, and the portion of the second knit region adjacent the at least one flat-knit edge comprises a covered yarn. The upper body clothing. 17. The garment of claim 16, wherein the at least one flat-knit edge comprises at least one finished edge without a sewn binding or separate trim piece.

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